The Tip O ‘Neill Irish Diaspora Award is presented on an annual basis to a chosen member of the broad Irish Diaspora in recognition of achievements in their chosen field and their interest in, and support for Ireland and its Diaspora.

The award is open to anyone of the Diaspora who has achieved prominence or recognition in a chosen field of business, commerce, industry, education, politics, finance or sport. The presentation of the award is made in Buncrana, County Donegal in September each year and is the centrepiece of a Diaspora program of events. The award recipient is chosen by the Tip O’Neill Irish Diaspora Award Committee, which operates under the auspices of Donegal County Council and the Donegal Diaspora Project.

It is recognised that the broad Irish Diaspora is a real resource for Ireland and Ireland a resource for the Diaspora. This award seeks to consolidate and further develop links with the Diaspora.